Endometriosis in Adolescents: A Closer Look at Pain Characteristics and atypical symptoms. A prospective Cohort Study

• DOI: 10.20944/preprints202501.1441.v1
• Publication Date: 2025-01-22T01:14:11Z
• Authors: Maria Federica Vi...; Ilaria Piacenti; Angela Musella; Laura Cacciamani; Maria Grazia Picc...; Lucia Manganaro; Ludovico Muzii; Maria Grazia Porpora

Background/Objectives: Endometriosis affects up to 10% of women reproductive age and about 47% adolescents with pelvic pain. Symptoms include dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, chronic pain (CPP). Adolescents often present atypical symptoms which can make endometriosis more difficult diagnose. This study aimed compare characteristics pain, symptoms, the effects hormonal treatments between adults endometriosis. Methods: A total 238 were included: 92 aged 12–18 (group A) 146 over 18 B). Data on menarches, cycle length, comorbidities, CPP, analgesic use, characteristics, endometrioma size recorded. The efficacy, compliance, side also assessed. Quality Life (QoL) was measured using SF-12 questionnaire at baseline after six months therapy. Results: had earlier menarche (p<0.001), longer menstrual periods higher use (p=0.001) compared adults. Dysmenorrhea frequent (p=0.01), lasted associated scores (p<0.001) in adolescents. CPP common described as "confined" (p=0.04) "oppressive" (p=0.038), while reported it "widespread" (p=0.007). Headaches nausea Both groups showed significant improvement QoL treatment minimal effects. Conclusions: menarche, periods, severe symptoms. Hormonal contraceptives dienogest are effective safe treatments, that improve QoL.